October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In an effort to raise awareness about the issue, inspire action and educate the public, the Beverly Police Department Domestic Violence Unit will host several awareness campaigns in the city throughout the month.

The Beverly Police department has placed Purple Ribbons on the antennas of all cruisers to show our support to victims and survivors of domestic violence, raise awareness and to send a loud and clear message to perpetrators that any form of violence will not be tolerated within our community. Purple pins and ribbons will be distributed to community members throughout the month to help bring awareness to the issues faced by victims of domestic violence. We encourage community members to tie the ribbons to their car antenna however the purple ribbons can also be hung on doors, trees, shrubs etc. Residents are also encouraged to purchase a purple light bulb and display it on their porch or in their window during domestic violence awareness month. The goal is to bring awareness & support to victims and survivors of domestic violence and to send a powerful message that there is no place for domestic violence in the homes, neighborhoods, workplaces or schools of our citizens.

Tear Drop Display: (Friday 10/12/12 @ 11am)

A tear display will be set up next to city hall to raise awareness of the prevalence of domestic violence within our community. Each tear will represent a client that was served through the D.V unit within the past year. The mayor will kick off the month long awareness campaign by reading the city’s domestic violence free zone proclamation. A table will be set up to provide information, resources and support.

Silent Witness Display: (Monday 10/22/12 @ 12)

Free standing life size wooden silhouettes painted in red, each one bearing the names of a Massachusetts victim who once lived, worked, had neighbors, friends, family, children who’s life ended violently at the hands of an intimate partner or acquaintance. An extra figure is added to represent those uncounted victims whose murders went unsolved or were erroneously ruled accidental. We’ll tell the story of each of the victims followed by a moment of silence to honor the memories of those victims.

4 mile run: (Saturday 10/27/12)

The 1st annual Beverly Domestic Violence 4 Mile Run will take place at West Beach. Let's show victims of domestic violence that we care and are here for them. More information can be found on the blog and Facebook page set up for the run. The Silent Witness Display will be displayed at finish line.